Inked Girls: Vanessa Zenz

The design and themes of my tattoos: I only really have two themes in my tattoos. The first is my sleeve, which represents all the different members of my family. The other theme is a representation of all of my morals or things I strongly believe in. As far as styles go, I like to think I have a bit of everything.

More specifics about my tattoo: I have tattoos of all different styles and sizes. From the mini elephant on my arm to the full size octopus on my ribs, stomach and back, each tattoo has its own meaning to me. And my collection is just getting started!

My favorite tattoo and the story behind it: My favorite tattoo that I have has got to be the lion I have on my thigh. A few years ago I was hurt by someone that I was very close to, and I let what he did completely ruin me. Instead of brushing myself off and moving on with my life, I let my grief consume me and I became someone I hated. I struggled with it for a long time, but I eventually found myself again and made a promise that I would never ever let anyone drag me down. Other people's actions can no longer change who I am as a person, and that's what my lion is all about.

My next tattoo: My next tattoo will probably be a portrait of he Roman god, Janus. He is the god of transitions and beginnings, with one face looking backwards and the other looking forward. Keep your past in mind, but always look towards the future!